The holiday season is a time of joy, love, family, and…shopping! With so many people to buy gifts for, it can be challenging to stick to a budget and not overspend. Fortunately, there are ways to save money on your holiday shopping without sacrificing the quality of your gifts. Here are ten tips that can help you out:
1. Start with a budget plan
Before you even think about stepping into any store or clicking on any website, it’s important to set a budget for your holiday shopping. Doing so will help you avoid impulse buys and overspending. Consider how much money you can realistically afford to spend and divide it among the people on your gift list. You should also be mindful of your other holiday expenses, such as travel, decorations, and food. If you’re a bit of an eager beaver, you can even start planning your budget a few months ahead of the holiday season so that you can be well-prepared for your upcoming expenses.
2. Shop early
The earlier you start your holiday shopping, the better. Not only will you avoid crowds, but you’ll also have time to compare prices and shop around for the best deals which will help you save money on your overall shopping expenses. One of the best things about shopping early is that you can take advantage of sales, special offers, and other promotions that stores offer to attract shoppers. You will also avoid the hassle of last-minute shopping, which can be stressful and expensive.
3. Look for coupons and discount codes
One of the most cost-effective ways to save money on your holiday shopping is to look for coupons and discount codes. Before you make any online purchase, do a quick search for coupons or discount codes for that particular store. This can help you save money on your purchase or even get free shipping. Sign up for the store’s email newsletter to receive exclusive coupons and discounts. You can also follow the store’s social media accounts, where they often post discount codes or other special promotions.
4. Shop online
Online shopping offers a ton of advantages when it comes to holiday shopping. You can shop around for the best prices without leaving your home, and you can even use comparison shopping apps to find the best deals. Plus, you won’t have to deal with the crowds, parking, or long lines. Most online stores offer free shipping or other discounts during the holiday season to attract shoppers. It’s also worth noting that some items may be cheaper online, especially if you look at international retailers or high-end brands, which can offer better deals than physical stores.
5. Consider DIY gifts
If you’re creative or enjoy making things, consider making your holiday gifts – this can save you money and add a personal touch to your presents. DIY gifts are not only thoughtful but can also save you money. You could make homemade candles, knit a scarf, or even bake some cookies – the possibilities are endless! Personalized cards, photo books, or calendars are other great options. You can also buy raw materials online, which can be cheaper than purchasing finished products from stores. Plus, your loved ones will appreciate the effort you’ve put into making their gifts.
6. Use price tracking tools
Using a price tracking tool can help you save money on your holiday shopping. These tools provide alerts when the price of a product drops, so you can buy it at the best time. Some good price tracking tools include Camelcamelcamel and Honey. You can also use Google Shopping, which allows you to compare prices from different stores and track price trends over time. Shopping apps can also save you money by offering exclusive deals, cashback, or coupons.
7. Don’t forget to haggle
Many stores are willing to give you a discount if you ask for it. Don’t be afraid to haggle a bit if you find an item you really want to buy but it’s out of your budget. You can simply ask a sales associate if they have any ongoing promotions or discounts that you could take advantage of. It’s also good to check if there are any faulty items or returns that could be sold at a discount. Just be polite and respectful, and you might be surprised at how much you can save by negotiating.
8. Join loyalty programs
Many stores offer loyalty programs where you can receive discounts or special offers as a member. Sign up for these programs before the holiday shopping season to take advantage of any early bird deals or exclusive discounts just for members. Some programs also give you points for every purchase you make, which can later be redeemed for gifts, offers, or discounts. If you’re going to shop at a specific store frequently, it’s worth joining their loyalty program so that you can benefit from their offers year-round.
9. Gift cards can help
If you’re really stuck on what to get someone, consider buying them a gift card. Not only can it be a thoughtful gift, but you can also save money by buying it at a discounted rate through websites like Gift Card Granny or Raise. These websites offer gift cards at a lower price than their actual value, making them an excellent option if you’re shopping on a tight budget. You can also buy gift cards in bulk, which can be a smart choice if you have several people to buy gifts for.
10. Stay organized and keep track of expenses
It’s important to stay organized and keep track of all your holiday shopping expenses so you don’t overspend. Create a spreadsheet or list of everyone you need to buy a gift for and how much you’re willing to spend. Record your purchases as you make them and keep track of any discounts or promotions you’ve used. You can use a budget app or an online tool that helps you keep track of your expenses and alerts you when you’re close to reaching your budget limit. By being organized, you’ll be able to plan more effectively and make better choices for your holiday shopping.
